David Ortiz to Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum: ‘You’re my d.o.g’

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has accomplished plenty in his young career.

But playing beneath the banners that hang in TD Garden serves as a reminder that the fans in Boston expect more than All-Star nods and individual accolades. Championships are the ultimate currency in the Hub.

Few people know about Boston’s rabid sports culture quite like former Red Sox great David Ortiz. The Hall of Fame designated hitter won three championships with the Sox, helping the club end an 86-year title drought and cementing himself as Boston sports royalty in the process.

And while Tatum might understand the history and greatness that motivate fans, Ortiz has lived it. Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and this current crop of Celtics players have a lot of work to do to reach those same heights and lofty expectations.

According to Ortiz, however, that time will come. Ortiz recently spoke with NBC Sports Boston about Tatum and why he’s such a supporter of Boston’s rising star.

“First of all, I might be his number one fan in all of Boston,” Ortiz said. “I love Jayson.

“He has established himself as one of the elite players in the league,” Oritz said.

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“He knows what it takes to win, but he also knows where he plays. He knows that the fans are true fans up in Boston. And every time he takes that court he shows it.

Ortiz explained that he believes Tatum is destined for something big. He said this is because Tatum continues to get better, and is doing the work behind the scenes to back it up.

That’s why Ortiz is such a Jayson Tatum fan.

“I’m going to wish him the best of luck,” Ortiz said.

“Jayson, man, I’m watching you. You’re my dog, and the best of luck.”