I honestly don't know, but I think in news, time is a factor.
Use this post as a test: what non-paywall link would you submit?
Not sure how they differ since non-paywall wsj link does not work for me (still has paywall in 2 different browsers).
By posting urls to good articles that are behind pay-walls, you do provide a place to discuss the information, etc., and everyone can still learn. That is assuming at least some of us can read it.
I pay for the wsj. Why wouldn't I pay for good research, good writing, knowledge, etc.? People need to earn a living.