Celtics big man Al Horford, who is returning to the team next year, packed them in at “Raising Cane’s” on Boylston Street.

Horford, a hero of the Title run and a fan favorite, was filming a commercial Thursday and just being an all-around nice guy to fans a day ahead of the Duck Boat parade.

“Man, it’s a special place to me. I feel like for me, it’s the love of the people here for their sports, for the game,” Horford told the Herald. “I’ve been all over the country and I just haven’t seen the love, the care, the commitment from people not only towards their sport, but their community.

“That’s very special,” he added about the Hub.

Al Horford was mobbed by fans. (Nancy Lane/Boston Herald)
A real hometown hero. (Nancy Lane/Boston Herald)