Isles' Botta ban looks firm

The Islanders' decision to revoke the credentials of blogger Chris Botta predictably prompted a wave of criticism yesterday, even in places where the team rarely is discussed, such as WFAN.

But sure enough, an interview of Botta by Mike Francesa turned the Isles into the improbable subject du jour.

Whether or not they are concerned about the public relations damage, it appears that is not going to change their minds.

Frank Brown, an NHL spokesman, confirmed he met with GM Garth Snow and other team executives Wednesday but declined to discuss specifics.

The league cannot be pleased about the Islanders battling a popular blogger who covers a little-covered team, but it does not control credentialing outside of events it runs, such as the Winter Classic and Cup finals.

Teams can revoke credentials at their "sole discretion.''

The Islanders' reasons remain murky. Botta speculated they are connected to his complex relationship with the club, especially Snow, in transitioning from a 20-year employee (through May, 2008) to providing sometimes critical coverage of the team.