After an unremarkable rookie campaign last year, New York Knicks guard Frank Ntilikina believes that the upcoming season will be a far better one. According to the 20-year-old, his preparations for this season has been much more productive, and that this will be the very reason why he believes he is due for a breakout year.

Speaking to Marc Berman of the New York Post, Ntilikina described how an injury-free preseason has been the main factor behind his palpable confidence entering his sophomore year.

“Last preseason, I didn’t have time to prepare,’’ Ntilikina said. “I was getting healthy from the summer. It’s a different feeling right now to prepare and get ready for that season.’’

At this point last year, Ntilikina was still recovering from a knee injury that prevented him from making an impact in the summer league. This preseason though, the Frenchman has had no injury setbacks, allowing him to focus on the development of his game.

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It is also worth noting that Ntilikina has literally grown over the summer. The former FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship MVP reportedly put on 10 to 15 pounds and grew 1.5 inches.

Ntilikina was drafted eighth overall by the Knicks last year. His debut season left a lot to be desired, with the youngster averaging only 5.9 points on 36.4% shooting, 0.6 three-pointers, 2.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.7 turnovers in 21.9 minutes off the bench.

Ntilikina is confident that he will have a much better outing this year as he hopes to take over Trey Burke's starting point guard spot at some point in the season.