I don't think Alito has anything to do with the Republican's intransigence here. I think it's just plain broken, incompetent Republican leadership afraid of the right-wingnut faction of their own party.
Republicans are in a totally lose-lose situation.
If they continue to deny even calling a hearing for this nominee, they appear obstructionist.
If they move forward with a hearing but vote against confirmation, they appear partisan.
If they call a hearing and confirm the nominee, they alienate their base.
They are totally backed in a corner.
Personally, I don't think they are being very forward looking. Obama put forth a moderate candidate in an effort to undo the gridlock. If the Repubs continue to obstruct, that will likely start to galvanize the left in lieu of the upcoming election, since Hillary can beat The Donald or Cruz over the head with this.
If I were the Republicans, I would move forward with a hearing at least. And even still, a confirmation here actually would work out better for them. They must understand at this staqe that the presidential election is all but lost. And they are on the verge of losing the senate. If they continue to placate to their fringe, they risk a scenario whereby the next administration can nominate whomever they like.