Yeah, the article is way off. Nationalism (at least in terms of conservatives) is not going to lead to socialism. They are directly opposed (again at least in the way it is being used now). This is basically scare mongering. I will say I am surprised by how much the term has been embraced in spite of it's historical connotation.
The fact that the right has abandoned fiscal conservatism is an actual issue that deserves attention. The reality is I'm not sure they ever really embraced it anyway. Unfortunately I believe it is an issue that requires a bipartisan commitment as well as popular support or it will fail. This issue can be tied into Trumps election and support as well.