I would argue that "perceived" is a misapplication of the English language.
The law is directly and demonstrably hostile to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.
The law rolled back anti-discrimination laws in multiple North Carolina cities. The law required lawsuits be filled in Federal Court, not State Court to make it harder to fill suit.
And, it tacked on an unnecessary bathroom law to make the whole thing seem moral.
So, New York Times, no false equivalency.
And NBA - YAY!