In a surprising development, the Denver Nuggets have been one of the best defensive teams in the league for the first three games of the season. While it is much too early to deem the Nuggets as a lockdown defensive team, they have displayed impressive defensive chops thus far.

They have defeated the LA Clippers 107-98, the Phoenix Suns 119-91, and the Golden State Warriors 100-98 on a clutch Juan Hernangomez defensive play.

It is especially impressive to have kept an offensive powerhouse like the Warriors below the century mark, but even keeping a fast-paced team like the Suns below the mark is respectable, especially in an era where it is not uncommon to see mediocre teams score 120 points.

According to NBA.com, the Nuggets have been the best defensive team through the first week of the season, followed closely by the Boston Celtics. Last year, the Nuggets were a lowly 23rd on the list, so if they can keep up this improvement it will be a massive turnaround.

Denver has always been known as an offensive team, usually getting wins by using a run-and-gun style and wearing down opponents at the high altitude Pepsi Center.

However, the Nuggets look to be locked in on both ends to start the season. Paul Millsap's return from injury has certainly improved the defense. Nikola Jokic has constantly been ridiculed for his defensive ability, but he has played respectable defense to start the season.

While it is unlikely Denver ends the season as the top defensive team, it certainly looks like the team has taken great strides on the defensive end of the floor after making it a point of emphasis this offseason.