Nelson's tactical instinct in a modern night battle

Would Nelson have performed better than Lee or Spruance in a World War II night battle?

Not automatically: he would need modern technical training, and his willingness to disregard higher orders could be both an advantage and a serious command problem.

The answer separates command temperament from technical competence. Nelson would first need instruction in radar, modern gunnery, and the command system around him. Willis Lee would remain the superior artillery specialist, while Nelson's resemblance to Philip Vian lies more in aggressive initiative and willingness to reinterpret orders. That independence could produce a brilliant surprise or a serious command problem, so reputation alone would not make Nelson better in a modern night action.