I find SCMP about equivalent to the NYT in the US. Not without its issues, but does quality reporting. When I need to follow the action live in HK to figure out what is happening (where protests are, what is happening in those protests, etc.), I find them to be reliable, fast, and accurate.

I'm not denying that they have a pretty pro-establishment point of view when it comes to their editorial. I'm not convinced that China has a major influence over their reporting, however.

Anyways, others recommend the Hong Kong Free Press as an alternative. Or you could also follow along on Twitter or join the private groups.