I don't think so. I don't recall seeing the article, but sounds like the author perhaps wasn't very familiar with the .375 2 1/2" NE.

The .375 Win is a much smaller case. Length is 2.020" and base diameter is .420". The .375 2 1/2" NE is 2.5" in length, and the base diameter is .459".

The .375 Win will drive a 250 grain bullet to 1,900 fps within pressure spec. CIP MAP for the .375 Win is 4,400 BAR/63,816 PSI. SAAMI MAP was 52,000 CUP.

The .375 2 1/2" NE standard load drives a 270 grain bullet to 1,975 fps, and does it at half the pressure of the .375 Win. CIP MAP for the NE is 2,200 BAR/31,908 PSI. This cartridge was also commonly loaded with a 300 grain at 1,900 fps.

The .375 Win is extremely high pressure for a lever rifle to begin with. I don't think the difference can be picked up without dangerous pressure levels.